Insta360 X5 360-degree action cam with interchangeable lenses
The Insta360 X5 action cam films 360-degree videos in 8K and exports aligned 1080p clips. The lens is now interchangeable and the sensor is larger than before.
The Insta360 X5 action camera records the image from two fisheye lenses simultaneously. Internally, it computes these into a 360-degree video. It retouches the selfie stick in the process.
(Image: c't / akr)
Action camera manufacturer Insta360 has unveiled a new model in its X series. The X5 comes with two sensors, one on each side, which record a total of 8K video at 30 frames per second in panoramic view. Alternatively, it films in 5.7K at 60 frames per second.
The resolution and frame rate of the X5 are unchanged from the previous X4 model, but the new 1/1.28-inch sensors (12.5 mm diagonal) are significantly larger than the previous 1/2-inch chips (8 mm diagonal). The pixel size of the X5 is 2.44 ÎĽm; Insta360 specifies a dynamic range of 13.5 f-stops. The new camera can capture more light than its predecessor and should therefore perform better in dark environments.
The camera optionally exports an active HDR video, which according to the manufacturer shows richer details and colors. Above all, it brightens up subjects in the dark. Insta360 recommends the profile for indoor scenes and those with backlighting or backlighting. This mode is available in a maximum resolution of 5.7K. An AI chip and two additional image processors should now process the image faster than with the X4.
Videos by heise
Interchangeable lenses and optional lens protection
The lenses attached to the front and rear are strongly curved to capture 180 degrees of the field of view. However, these particularly exposed glass domes were highly susceptible to scratches and even glass breakage on the previous models. Thanks to more robust glass, they should no longer scratch so easily. Defective lenses on the X5 can be replaced with a separately available repair kit.
Insta360 also offers lens protectors that can be clamped in front of the lens. According to the manufacturer, the standard and premium protective lenses are much more resistant to damage and are suitable for extreme scenarios such as motocross, but at the expense of image quality.
Battery performance and water protection
Insta360 states a battery life of 180 minutes, measured at 5.7K with 30 fps. With the X4, it was 135 minutes in comparable conditions. The battery is said to be 80 percent charged in 20 minutes.
The manufacturer has also improved the water resistance. The camera is protected against submersion to IP68 at 15 meters compared to 10 meters for the X4.
Sound and wind protection
The stereo microphone on the front is protected from wind noise by a multi-layer steel mesh. An optimized audio algorithm is designed to further improve the recorded sound.
After underwater use, the microphone should be left to dry in the air. It takes around 24 hours for the camera to record normal sound again.
Automatic reframing
In InstaFrame mode, the X5 records the complete 360-degree video and a flat video aligned to the horizon in parallel. The mode distinguishes between the two options fixed view and selfie view. The former follows the video in the perspective modes "forwards", "backwards", "up", "down" or a user-defined view. Selfie view recognizes and follows a face, but always loses it from view.
In the app for Android and iOS or the desktop application for Windows and macOS, you can correct colors and apply AI templates. Videos can be saved and shared via the paid cloud service Insta360+. The camera software automatically retouches a selfie stick.
The camera can still be controlled using gestures or voice commands. However, gesture control is not available with InstaFrame.
Prices and accessories
According to the manufacturer, the X5 is available immediately. The standard bundle will cost 589.99 euros. In addition to the camera, it includes a USB-C cable, a protective case and a lens cloth. The standard bundle does not include a lens protector. Standard and premium lens protectors are available separately for 22.99 and 39.99 euros respectively. The lens repair kit costs !!! Euro.
The X5 is not compatible with X4 accessories such as transport case, diving case, multifunctional frame and quick-charging hub due to a different housing.
(akr)
